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Team Nutrition: Campaign aims to teach students healthy eating habits

Students in Cañon City schools can look forward to meeting some new friends when classes resume Aug. 22.

"Phil My Plate," "Trey Spork" and, of course, the "lunch lady" are part of a new cast of characters who will teach younger students the importance of healthy eating habits and active lifestyles.

The characters are part of a proposed marketing campaign created by Director of Nutrition Services Adam Merlino.

"We'll use those characters to teach lessons and market eating healthy meals," he said. "In about a week we will introduce them on Facebook - a page called Team Nutrition."

He said kindergartners are more likely to learn from fun characters than an adult with a bunch of impressive credentials.

The upcoming Facebook page will feature recipes, health tips and more. Merlino said he also plans to be engaged in the district's wellness committee.

Merlino reminds the community that the free summer lunch program continues through Aug. 2 at Cañon City High School School, 1313 College Ave. Hours of service are 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Monday- Friday. Adults 19 and older pay only $4.

"Parents know their children are getting a healthy lunch," he said. "It's already prepared following some guidelines and there is no thought process required - you just show up and it's a balanced meal."

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